July 23, 2004 – La Bicicletta weekly criterium series is now in its seventh year and has been the catalyst for: two other weekly series, the formation of a club with over eighty members, and a men's team that is producing some impressive results. It has also been a significant component in the development of a number of riders who have gone on to perform at national and international level and continues to provide local riders with a great addition to their training schedules.

Occasionally, as was the case last week, situations develop and tempers flare, resulting in most inappropriate behaviour on the part of a few of the participants, and providing an opportunity for the naysayers to try and stir controversy. Suffice to say that last week's incidents have been dealt with to the satisfaction of those involved and appropriate disciplinary action has been taken.

Many of us witnessed in this week's Tour de France coverage examples of good sportsmanship on the part of some of the best riders in the world. Let's see if we can be equally good role models to the children and family members who come out to watch the series by turning any frustration we might have with other competitors into better tactics and elevated performances.

Over the next few weeks, there will be a staff reporter and photographer from the Toronto Star gathering material for a story on the Midweek Series. Let's give them lots of positive feedback on the sport we all love.

Peter McCaffery.